Can Ebay Sellers Require Insurance??

jeff8877 · October 21, 2008 1:26PM

Hi everyone,

I recently won a $10 card that showed $2.50 as the shipping charge. I didn't read the fine print and it says that insurance of $1.70 per USPS rates is required. Seller sent invoice with insurance that I can't change. Is this allowed per ebay policy?? I am all for insurance, but not on a $10 item.

Thanks to all!

Jeff

rube26105 · October 21, 2008 1:29PM

i dont know if its alowed theu ebay policy, but ive bought stuff with ins required by the seller before too

leathtech · October 21, 2008 1:30PM

another annoying seller... I would ask for proof of insurance, more than likely he is pocketing the $1.70.

Not sure if it’s legal or not but sure does sound unethical.

storm888 · October 21, 2008 1:46PM

Sellers can charge the exact USPS rate for insurance, and the seller
must purchase the insurance.

Sellers can require buyers to pay for the insurance.

jeff8877 · October 21, 2008 1:50PM

Thanks Storm...knew you would know the answer if you were on the boards.

Jeff

BunchOBull · October 21, 2008 8:33PM

Yes, if you think to the listing page, when you set up shipping costs, there is a section to select insurance as "optional" or "required." Or of course none. I always put insurance of items of $40-50ish or more (if it's a questionable customer, I may go even lower), but most of my listings are "free shipping," so it's at no greater loss to the customer.

MBMiller25 · October 22, 2008 12:01AM

Jeff For what its worth, I require insurance on all of my auctions over $50.00. I do not charge anything for Shipping, DC, or (Sig Confirmation if its over $250.00), but do require my buyer to pay actual USPS shipping charges. I insure everything.

Edited: to correct my grammar.

packCollector · October 22, 2008 12:17AM

sellers can require it if they buy it.

personally I jsut give 1 shipping charge including insurance as it takes the frustration out. I insure privately so that I do not have to charge more than a signature required for more expensive items. seems to make everyone happy except for the real cheapo cards

WinPitcher · October 22, 2008 4:00AM

If a seller states that insurance is required and will be paid for by the buyer in his listing
I see no problem with it.

So IMO the answer to the OP's question is yes, as long as it is stated beforehand.

Steve

jrinck · October 22, 2008 4:47AM

Just make sure it's not the old "self-insurance" bullsh*t.

WinPitcher · October 22, 2008 4:57AM

Well if a seller includes it in one price he can self insure.

He just can't charge extra for it.

Example:

Shipping/handling and insurance is 5.00 OK

shipping/handling 3.00
insurance.............2.00 not ok

Steve

storm888 · October 22, 2008 5:20AM

<< <i>Well if a seller includes it in one price he can self insure.

He just can't charge extra for it.

Example:

Shipping/handling and insurance is 5.00 OK

shipping/handling 3.00
insurance.............2.00 not ok

Steve >>

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That is the CORRECT way to explain it.

Can Ebay Sellers Require Insurance??

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